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Conclusion

Wind energy will be a main contributor to the implementation of the EU objectives on renewable energy production. However, the current R&D efforts for wind energy are insufficient – at all levels - to respond to the energy challenges faced by the EU. The risk is therefore of failure in reaching the EU objectives for energy production from renewable sources (and therefore on reduction of CO₂ emissions), and in implementing the European strategy for growth and jobs. 

A critical component is the contribution of the EU, which, in order to achieve the objectives of the Lisbon Strategy, should lead by example. A strong and clear signal from the EU would act as catalyst at Member State level in strongly supporting renewables and wind in particular.

The problem Europe faces is not a lack of technical solutions but a lack of time. 2020 is tomorrow. The longer it takes to adapt the EU energy system, the more difficult and costly it will be, with an unknown impact on the environment.

In 2007, the Strategic Energy Technology Plan set a new agenda for energy research and innovation in Europe, with the core aim of speeding up the deployment progress of energy technologies. One of the proposed key areas of action is that of industrial initiatives, among which is the European Wind Initiative. This initiative should be a major part of European research and innovation in wind energy technology. It should lead to an adapted European energy mix that is less reliant on imports, is zero-CO₂-based and that creates employment opportunities.